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Guinea

Without any doubt Guinea is our most adventurous destination. Tourism infrastructure is near to non-existing, allowing travellers a real African and local experience. Explore the islands and beaches, hike the Fouta Djallon highlands, visit colourful markets, mingle with the locals and have a great time. Share your travel dreams with us, and we make them come true!

Nowadays Guinea was in times past part of several West African empires, including the Ghana Empire, the Mali empire and the Songhai empire. Not surprisingly it shares a fair bit of its history with neighboring Mali. In the 16th century slave traders took advantage of the coastal area. The French invaded the country in the mid-19th century, and finally defeated Malinké leader Samori Touré in 1898. On 2 October 1958 Guinea proclaimed itself a sovereign and independent republic. The country’s recent history include a military coup (2008), political violence (2013) and an Ebola outbreak (2014).

Population

Guinea is home to 24 ethnic groups. The Fula are with about 40% the largest population group, based mainly in the Fouta Djallon region. Malinké (also known as Mandinka or Mandingo) is the second largest population group, mostly found in the East of the country around Kankan and Kissidougou. The Soussou are the dominant population group in the West of the country. Other population groups include Kpelle, Kissi, Zialo, Kono, Baga and Toma.

Geography

Geographically Guinea can roughly be divided in upper Guinea, middle Guinea, coastal Guinea and forested Guinea. The country is a haven for nature-lovers with abundant forests, the Fouta Djallon highlands, waterfalls and a coastal area with beaches and islands. The West towards Mali is relatively flat, while the East of the country has hills and mountains.

Climate

Guinea has a rainy season from roughly May-mid October. Rains can be abundant, lasting several days. During the dry season temperatures vary depending on the region. March and April are the warmest months, with temperatures in the East of the country being around 40 degrees Celsius. November-February are the cooler months. During the cooler months, night-time temperature can drop to as little as 5 degrees Celsius in the Fouta Djallon.

Fouta Djallon

The Guinean highlands are by far the best-known part of the country with travellers. For good reason! The mountainous scenery is stunning, the area can be travelled by car and is an excellent place to set out on guided hikes. Hikes can be as short as 1 hour, and as long as multiple weeks. Expect lovely villages, a lush environment, lots of waterfalls and a fair chance to spot up to five primate species in their natural habitat: chimpanzees, baboons, patas monkeys, King colobus and the green monkey.

Coast & Islands

Some nice beaches can be found in Guinea’s coastal area. From Conakry a short boat trip leads to the Los Islands. The islands are an excellent place to relax, set out on walks and enjoy the beach.

Wildlife

Guinea has two national parks: Parc national Niokolo-Badiar and Parc national du Haut Niger. Primates are the main species in both parcs. The country being rich in forests, birders can spot a huge variety of species in the country.

Flights to Guinea

Multiple airlines run intercontinental flights to Conakry, including KLM-Air France, Royal Air Maroc, Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates and TAP. Ticket prices vary per airline and season.

Last but not least Guinea does not yet have much of a tourism infrastructure. Travel in Guinea requires an open and flexible attitude. Running water and electricity are not always available. Neither are mobile and internet connection. Availability of wifi is extremely limited. Road conditions can turn covering a distance in a lengthy process.

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